I think … no, I KNOW … I’m in total denial that we’re almost halfway through the year! I seriously haven’t gotten over Christmas and am still gobbling chocolate Easter eggs at an illegal pace, and May is here! Really, May! Already? I bemoan the change of season every year, farewell to fashion, the sun kissed bikini and Havaianas and a begrudging nod and dreary return to jeans and scratchy woollies. The only saviour for this gloomy time of year is the acceptable increase in hot chocolate consumption and the delicious fashion for the feet! Let the festival of the boot begin!

Yasmin Rumjahn and Tyerell Allen were married at a ceremony at Emerald Downs Golf Course (developed by the groom’s late grandfather, Todd Roods) in mid March, with a reception to follow in the waterfront function rooms at Rydges. The bride looked radiant in an off the shoulder ivory Charlie Brown gown and was attended by best friend, Grace Lee. Tyerell was attended by his older brother Ryan. The bride changed into another stunning floor length Charlie Brown red gown for the reception and set to work to party with their 75 guests, enjoying a four-course feast and a wedding cake designed and made by the bride. Guests were given miniature jars of Ricardoes strawberry jam in keeping with the red theme. The couple filled the event with personal touches, with Tyerell designing stationery and invitations, flowers and decorations. Guests travelled from San Francisco, New Zealand and Sydney to celebrate on the coast. The couple ended the night with some fun fancy dress shots with their guests and jetted off to Hawaii for their honeymoon. Aloha, Yasmin and Tyerell!

Raffaella Galli-Hurdwell from Bluebird and Blossom recently held a fab website launch at her boutique in the Garrison Building. This place is one of my favourite haunts, filled with wonderful treats including Samantha Wills Jewellery (a personal fave), beautiful leather goods (including my beloved boots!) and one off fashion pieces. You can check out all of Raffi’s treasures at www.bluebirdandblossom.com.au

Tess Worthing and Coby Meehan were married on a gorgeous sunny day in late March in Smithtown, followed by a relaxed reception for 90 guests at Hat Head Surf Club. Tess, who works in PR for local government and Coby in the hardware industry, met as children while rowing surf boats together in Hat Head.

The pair went on their separate ways and didn’t see each other again until uni was over and they were both working in hospitality back in the Macleay. It was serendipitous that the couple crossed paths again, fell in love and celebrated their wedding, all where it first began in Hat Head. Tess and Coby’s love of nature meant they chose a tree theme for their wedding, which was highlighted by their bonbonniere of timber coasters cut and oiled by Coby using timber from his family farm, a wedding tree guest book, where all of their guests recorded their fingerprint and name, a gorgeous timber branch cake stand and stunning local flannel flowers from Stuarts Point. All invitations and place cards were printed on recycled paper.

Guests enjoyed canapés in the gardens of the surf club followed by a main course from SilverSpoon Catering, and their wedding cake with vanilla bean ice-cream and berries. Congrats to a really lovely couple – wishing you every happiness in your life together.

The delightful Briannah Berne celebrated her 13^th birthday with a fabulous party on April 21 at Zebu, with a High Tea Party for 13 of her closest girlfriends. The girls enjoyed mini cupcakes, finger sandwiches, decadent chocolate caramel tarts and scrummy hot chocolates. The event was organised by Mum Kylie Berne, with the girls all attending in the best party frocks! Happy birthday Miss Briannah!

Speaking of High Teas – I stepped back in time and had a delightful experience at Tea and Treasures with hosts John and Trish!

Creative couple Fiona Joy Hawkins and Bas Gross celebrated their wedding on Saturday 21 April with a cocktail celebration at their stunning home set on a hillside in Kendall. Fiona and Bas chose a Casablanca Nightclub feel for their event, with theming in black, white and red. The 130 guests enjoyed a musical and culinary feast, with as many as 5 different artists performing throughout the evening and over 14 different bite size morsels of SilverSpoon delicacies with little noodle boxes of yumminess to finish. Fiona designed a fabulous 200 piece cupcake wedding cake also made by Lauren from SilverSpoon, including hazelnut fudge, banana banofi and my personal favourite, red velvet cupcakes. The eclectic and beautifully attired guests tangoed the night away, with many guests including artists, performers, sculptors and writers all in attendance to celebrate with the happy couple. Bas, a vintage car enthusiast, restored a stunning old Bristol that whisked the couple away immediately after their ceremony. Congratulations to a hugely talented and much loved couple!

Happy birthday to my beloved mother-in-law, Pam Foye, who recently celebrated her 60^th birthday with the event we now refer to as the ‘Festival of Pam’! The almost week long celebration was co-ordinated by my co-conspirator Terry Foye, who organised a covert mission to execute a cocktail event at Zebu for 30 guests complete with delicious chocolate truffle cake from Burkhardts Bakery, followed by a surprise getaway to South West Rocks on the Saturday to follow and a dinner for 20 guests at the Seabreeze Hotel.

All the guests made a weekend of it, with the surprise being partially blown by Pam looking out the window at the exact moment I stepped out of my highly conspicuous van with a giant and supremely delicious chocolate birthday cheesecake! Cover blown and party started! South West Rocks proved as always to be heaven on a stick! Happy birthday, Pammy!

Slice of Haven festival is set to hit the shores of the Camden Haven on Sunday 27 May. This is one of my favourite local fests, celebrating great food, wine, beer and of course, CUPCAKES! Some may think I have the pram for transporting a much loved little one from stall to stall – it is really to stash obscene amounts of cupcakes into every pouch and crevice! Have wheels and sugar addiction –  will travel! ‘til next month!

Kate.

This story was published in issue 78 of Port Macquarie Focus 

Becoming an aunty was certainly a highlight, with my little brother producing the first grandchild in both families. Typical! Tinny little bugger always manages to slip in and beat me to the punch! In my excitement in texting the news to some of my girlfriends with my new iPhone, I managed to send out to the world … Connor James Wood delivered by emergency Casserole at 7.15pm! Pesky auto text predictor! Don’t they have apps that account for baby brain! Doctor … pass the mash potato, we have a baby on the way!

Louise Melling and Brent Hoade celebrated their wedding on a swelteringly hot day at the historic Old School House at Rawdon Island. The couple who met in Perth through mutual friends playing Cupid decided to move to Port Macquarie’s North Shore in March of 2010. One hundred guests enjoyed a selection of canapés created by Silverspoon Catering and Events. Guests were provided with little fans to keep themselves cool in the warmth of the February afternoon.Guests enjoyed handmade savoury canapés, followed by a decadent selection of miniature desserts, with local band Crank adding some fun to the night. The bride was stunning in a gown purchased from Isabella Bridal Taree and was attended by the couple’s gorgeous little girl, Ella. The couple were photographed by good friend Brad Gilbank, and the flowers were done by friend Renee Cooper. Guests travelled from WA, QLD, Sydney and the Blue Mountains to enjoy the celebration with the happy couple. The pair will be taking a winter honeymoon in Tasmania in July – congratulations Louise and Brent!

The lovely Renae Lawrence recently celebrated her 18th birthday with 50 family and friends at her Port Macquarie home. Mum Kathy organised a fab pool party, with cocktails, mocktails and canapés for all. Renae recently graduated from MacKillop Senior College in December with top marks and is heading off to study medicine. I am hoping she comes back to study with the team at Rural Clinical School in Port Macquarie – always handy to have a doctor that lives next door! Happy birthday Renae!

Jodi Priest and Andrew McAlary tied the knot at Harry’s Lookout on Friday 25 February, followed by an intimate cocktail party for their immediate family and friends at their gorgeous Lighthouse Beach home. The couple celebrated with their favourite trio – their triplet daughters. Guests enjoyed SilverSpoon canapés and miniature desserts, including sticky date puddings, white chocolate and raspberry cheesecakes and miniature lemon meringue pies. Jodi and Andrew enjoyed a very relaxed evening overlooking stunning Lighthouse Beach. Congratulations to you both!

Rydges is undergoing yet another transformation, with the full renovation of the waterfront conference rooms on the first floor, to be complete for August of this year. Super exciting for all, as we will lose the rather inconvenient L shape of old to be replaced by a full ballroom / conference room formation for over 300 guests, with full length windows with views to the water – perfect for formals and gala dinners!  Our first big event will be the Masquerade Ball on Saturday 20 August, featuring super fun Newcastle band the Funky Do Das and lots of glamour and glitz as always, raising money for a great cause! Diaries please!

Hayley Thoroughgood and Aaron Innes chose an iconic venue for their March nuptials at the gorgeous Smokey Cape Lighthouse near South West Rocks. The couple, who were initially friends, became engaged after six months, with Aaron’s proposal at Kiama Lighthouse. Six years later, sixty guests witnessed their wedding ceremony at the unique Smokey Cape location, followed by a reception lit with stunning white and blue lanterns and miniature fairy lights.  The bride wore a dress specially made for her in alabaster by Carla Zampatti, with clutch from Alannah Hill and heels from Mollini. Hayley was  attended by Collette Rozier and Felisa Beasley, who both wore Fleur Wood gowns. All the girls had their makeup done by local makeup artist Jolin Shead. Aaron was attended by Carl Ehlers and Clinton Burbage, who wore Tarocash and Country Road. The dapper groom was dressed from head to toe in Poltix. Guests enjoyed an array of delicate SilverSpoon canapés and of course, an abundance of champagne. The couple are now honeymooning in Malaysia and Singapore and will return to Ocean Shores in the Byron Bay Shire. Congrats Hayley and Aaron!

Joyer’s Lee Dixon Bday celebrated his 40th birthday with a bash at Taos Relish by the River on Saturday 19 March 2011. This budding triathlete and his lovely wife Anya kicked up their heels with friends and family, followed by a shindig back at their Bonny Hills home. Guests, including sister Lisa Briscoe and hubby Drew and the hockey gang made it a night, with a good old fashioned pommy cook up the following morning. Happy birthday Lee! Sorry we missed it!

Zebu Bar + Grill flashed back to the eighties for one night of retro fashion food and music, with a tribute to the glam and heady days of Miami Vice, with their recent Miami Splice night.Staff were dressed in their best Don Johnson suits to greet the sexy crowd, who enjoyed an array of cocktails and canapés from the decadent decade. DJ Ollie Brooke turned back the dial and took the crowd back to the tunes of the day. Thankfully, Collette and Milli Vanilli were absent from the playlist! Keep an eye out for some special guest DJs from Sydney to feature in the coming months, including the lovely Kate Monroe on Ironman weekend!

Being a month of firsts, we also committed the ultimate culinary sin … on the night my little nephew was born, we arrived home at some ungodly hour to tuck into a celebratory and contradictory supper of Moet and MacDonald’s – sacrilege, I know! When you gotta eat, you gotta eat! I have to say the chocolate fudge sundae complemented the bubbles surprisingly well!

Last, but certainly not least, the most important first of all came for Steve and I in the early hours of Saturday 19 March – little Jack Foye entered the world!  Fashionably late at three days overdue, Jack the lad has wasted no time in wrapping his parents around his little finger. To say I am in love is a huge understatement, with our worlds being changed forever by this beautiful little chappie.  He has already been on his first official outing in Port Macquarie – to every man’s favourite place – Bunnings … and did extremely well!

Thank you for all the wonderful well wishes, flowers and gifts sent to our family this week – we are so grateful for everyone’s love and support.

‘Til next month!

Kate.

A whole new world of teenie weenie, little people’s things I never really explored before. Who knew little jumpsuits with owls and trains on them were so damn cute and addictive … could this be an obsession to rival that of my untreated shoe fetish … surely not! Little kids’ shoes – now don’t get me started! I am currently working through a list of essential To Dos and putting little ticks next to each one. I have decided to take a corporate approach to the whole baby affair, making lists, researching this strange new world that is motherhood and trying to reduce the freak-out-o-meter by at least one panic attack a week!

February was a busy month, with lots of fellow Aquarians celebrating their birthdays – a rowdy bunch descended on Oxley Beach to celebrate the birthday of Jamie Styles recently. Guests including Amy Riddle, Matt Baker, Gemma and Jason Clifton, Rhianna and Christie-Lee Jackson and Steve and I took to the beach for an afternoon of lazing in the sun and some dodgy beach cricket. BBQ and beers all round, with a dash of severe sunburn for me … note to self, must wear sun cream on legs to avoid hideous short tan line … Happy birthday Jamie!

My mother in law is currently gallivanting across the US and very kindly decided to text me at 3.15am to tell me she had just bumped into Mr Big – yes ladies, Chris Noth himself from Sex and The City. If it had been anyone else meeting anyone other than Mr Big, I would have been quite peeved! Mr Big is possibly one of the most gorgeously charismatic men on the planet, and her excitement was understandably extreme! She also managed to schnaffle his autograph along with his buddy Keifer Sutherland – not bad for a night’s work and considering she had no idea who Keifer was! Nice one Sue!

I have had two culinary experiences this month that are definitely yum-worthy! The first experience was at Bouzy Rouge – a little BYO tucked away in a hole in the wall opposite Growers Market in Port Macquarie.

Having no idea what to expect on arrival and being slightly unsure of what the night would be like – friends and I were greeted by Tony the affable Scotsman, who made us immediately relaxed and at home. No menus folks – chef’s selection for the evening – slightly unnerving for a control freak like me!

We then sat down to a delicious five-course degustation created by chef Patrick Bowen that was, in a nutshell – simply divine. There was something exciting about not knowing what was coming out next.

Courses included crab, seared scallop, roasted pork belly, Atlantic salmon and the final and divine finish, a sky high soufflé with handmade chocolate chip ice-cream. Literally to die for. Matched with some local sparkles and wine – perfect!

My second gastronomical affair this month was with the Press Club in Melbourne. The Press Club is the brainchild and labour of love for Master Chef celebrity judge George Calombaris. Steve had hinted to me that he was taking me to dinner at a surprise low key venue … so I trotted off without the usual fuss, no lip gloss, no essential bits and pieces and nearly no high heels!

God forbid! Much to my horror and excitement, I soon realised where we were … this venue definitely warranted lip gloss!

The restaurant featured dark wood ceilings and doors, with stunning stone floors and dimmed lighting with leather chairs and impressive old world paned windows. The feel was distinctly urban chic, with a mellow vibe immersing guests as they stepped through the oversized dark wooden doors. Rather than go for the degustation selection on this occasion, we opted for individual entrees and mains  including a summer salad of spanner crab and micro herbs, seared scallops, matched with the most divine pinot gris from Alsace. (I only had a little sip – promise!)

Main course was a work of art with a roasted pork belly with crackling done in apple cider and a house made pork sausage served with vanilla infused pureed apple and a carrot and star anise puree with puy lentils. Steve had a seared lamb best end with borlotti beans – scrumptious! Try as I might – dessert was out of the question! Thank you George – a top night of nosh!

Another stand out event was the wedding of Camille Percival and Tom Oliver. Camille and Tom tied the knot on Saturday 5 February, with their ceremony overlooking Lighthouse Beach. One hundred guests returned to Rydges Port Macquarie for the waterfront reception. Guests were greeted by a breathtaking room decorated by Varan from Dharam Events, including a magnificent array of pink roses in stunning centrepieces designed by Marilyn and Ashley at Touchwood Flowers.

The room was lit with deep fuchsia highlights and an array of miniature tea lights. Guests, who travelled from as far away as Canada, Toowoomba, Melbourne and Brisbane enjoyed canapés, entrée, main and dessert followed by a delicious chocolate and vanilla cupcake wedding cake created by Trish Jackson of Designer Cakes.

The wedding cake also had a traditional fruit cake tier topped with Camille’s two dogs Mickey and Mario featured on top. Honoured guests included Tom’s parents Glenna and Dennis Oliver and parents of the bride Michelle and Michael Percival. The bride was, of course, radiant and attended by bridesmaids Sarah, Ainslie and Megan, while Tom was attended by his brothers Paul and Greg and Best Man Andrew. Congratulations to Tom and Camille, who are honeymooning in Vanuatu and will make their home in Brisbane.

As I bid farewell this month, I realise this may be the last semi-sane column I write for a few months – to say the least. With only days to go until the bambino arrives, who knows when my next chance to sit at a laptop a-la-solo will be! God knows how I will go in the strange new world of Napisan and night feeds. I am hoping the baby likes doing lunch with the girls as much as I do, Sunday lay-ins and likes a good jog along the beach … bring on the three wheeler pram! PS. A special thanks must go to Steve this month, who lost the husband of the year award by buying me a radio alarm clock for my birthday … apart from being totally practical and absolute grounds for divorce … somehow babe, I really don’t think we will be needing one!

Kate.

The lovely Kylie Malligan recently celebrated her 40th birthday looking absolutely abba- fantastic at the Port Macquarie Golf Club. Fifty friends from near and far gathered to celebrate this special lady’s milestone in vintage seventies glamour and style. Guests included Joy and Paul Broad of Broadway Shoes and Bags as retro groovers, Lee and Craig Reimer-Madden as Dolly Parton and a safari suit hipster.

Kylie’s man, the ever funky Mark Lyon of Barbeques Galore, rocked a camel safari suit complete with seventies cravat. Kylie’s gorgeous daughter Dana Malligan teamed up with her mum as the other half of the Abba pair, while eldest daughter Laura Malligan took to the stage as the white gloved Michael Jackson, complete with a rendition of the Jackson Five hit ‘ABC’.

David Relf partied on as a hairy hippy while wife Trish did the Farrah Fawcett. Steve and I joined in with the psychedelic theme wishing the birthday girl a fabulous birthday. The divine Ms M was last seen on the dance floor belting out a very heartfelt and boisterous ‘Mamma Mia’ with girlfriends Kylie Gentle, Tracey Crawford and Vicki Bates. Happy birthday Kyles!

Hot Women met again for another fabulous do, celebrating a personal favourite, the accessory of choice – shoes! Thirty women converged at Broadway Shoes and Bags in Peachtree Arcade for a divine afternoon of networking and serious shoe discussion and assessment.

Canapés and bubbles were devoured by the feisty crew, who turned their natural shoe instinct into a honed craft as they discussed ways to conquer the world with a stiletto!

Congrats to Kylie, Tenille and Sue, who keep coming up with great ways for corporate women to link up and lash out!

On the same day, just across town, final touches were being placed on the annual Masquerade Ball at Rydges. The event was loads of fun – a magical night made all the better by the uber glam guests, who really turned up the fashion stakes for a night of glamour for charity.

Almost five thousand dollars was raised for local organisation Mid Coast Care, with 69 generous local business houses donating thousands of dollars in prizes for the cause.

A special mention must go to some gifted locals who donated their talent and skill towards the night, including Nathan Brown and his gorgeous girls from Dynasty Dance with their fabulous opening performance of ‘Black and Gold’, Joel Broad ‘The Magic Man’ who performed card and rope tricks as guests enjoyed canapés and Debortoli bubbly, and Matt from Hydro Photographics, who snapped the guests and their gorgeous masks on arrival.

Best male mask went to Mark Wilson AKA the Transformer from Port Macquarie Holden. He and his lovely lady Jodie Carty were also the lucky bidders on the Dynasty dance lessons and iPhone donated by Telstra.

Best ladies’ mask went to Alison Doak, who wore a stunning emerald green gown matched with a bejewelled and feathered emerald mask – all hand made, of course!

Best couple went to Jay and Louise Beaumont – Jay did his best impersonation of King Kong while Louise accompanied him as a Venetian Vixen!

Other guests who got their groove on included the gorgeous gals from Settlement City, Evelina and her girls from Glasshouse Hair and Beauty, Steve and Meredy from Glasshouse Flowers, The Independent Crew and Natalie and Gerry Byron from The Colour Bar. Cheers to the Bounty Hunters, who got the crowd fun and funky!

Special mention to Kate Hutten, John Parer, Cathy Morton and Gail Galvin-Anderson, who dedicated their time and effort to help make the event a success. Looking forward to next year!

Local organisation Out N Hastings Inc recently held a fabulous cabaret night with over 120 guests in attendance at the Old Butter Factory.

Their next charity night out is at the Riverview Tavern on Saturday 18 September with fabulous Drag Show from Kitty n’ Katya and DJ’s Mel and Stax. Tickets are $20 at the door, with funds raised going to HIV Support. More details can found on the Out N Hastings Facebook page.

A quick shout out to Bec and the gals from the Milk Bar, who made me the yummiest organic fruit and macadamia loaf ever! Their decadent fruit filled toast with lashings of butter is simply to die for! Surely my Sunday favourite of fresh vege juice cancels out any naughty fats!

Ladies, ready yourselves! Bring out the bubbles, book in for your spray tan and warm up that hair straightener – this is going to be a whopper of a month for glamourising!

The annual Business Awards are just around the corner, with the Signature Dish Dinner and Port Cup hot on its heels!

I, for one, will be popping the sparkles of the non-alcoholic kind this year, with Steve and I expecting a new season arrival of our own in March. At this early stage I have sworn my devotion to high heels to the very end … people keep on saying I should hold that thought … perhaps I will get back to you a little later in the year … Bring on the Perrier – it’s party time!

‘Til next month!

Kate.

He continued through the weekend like a possessed woodpecker, ruthlessly culling despite my screams of protest – that went largely ignored. Sad really, when the highlight of your weekend includes the purchase of three tree ferns and a dog bed.

We asked for a relaxing weekend, and I seriously nearly lost my mind in the process of ‘chilling out’. It seems that quiet weekends are not as desirable as once thought, and I am seriously looking forward to the next event!

We have had a few shocked and surprised ‘would be’ café guests wandering into the hotel only to find the restaurant and ground floor boarded up and filled with workmen in funny orange and white construction hats. The hotel is literally a hive of activity, with a gaping, empty space where the restaurant once was.

GM David Capper has returned home from his ski trip to NZ to find a construction zone! Plans for the new restaurant and bar will be kept under wraps for now, with a reveal due for December of this year. Weddings, events and conferences will run as normal during this time, so absolutely no rest for the Rydges crew!

Some huge events coming up on the Port Macquarie calendar including Rydges Three Rivers Mini Marathon on the weekend of the 7 and 8 August, kicking off with a sponsors and competitor cocktail party at the hotel on Saturday evening.

This will be followed by a super early start for over 200 competitors from all over the country, jumping into the Wilson River at 7am and paddling or rowing their way down a 27 km course. The event will be loads of fun and is powered by a committee of passionate and dedicated rowing enthusiasts, including Darby Munro, Kim Chilton, Louise Jones and Geraldine Clarke, to name just a few who will indulge in a quiet refreshment on the finish line on Sunday afternoon!

If I have to see Julia Gillard kiss another petrified baby or hear Tony Abott say, “Fair Dinkum” in another speech, I will totally lose the plot! The election can’t come quick enough …

I know that some people are so confused, despite the recent advice from the dubiously respected ‘worm’, that they are just looking forward to the sausage sizzle at the gate … never mind that we are supposed to picking our nation’s leader … can they have onion and BBQ sauce please?

MasterChef will have little on Port Macquarie on Thursday 9 September 2010, when over 20 chefs from the region cook it out in the name of the Mid North Coast Signature Dish.

Each chef will cook a meal from scratch sourced from regional ingredients in front of a team of judges, including the renowned Serge Dansereau from Bathers Pavilion, John Cassegrain and Matthew Armstrong the Executive Chef/Head Teacher of North Coast TAFE.

Once the formal judging is over, the 20 chefs prepare their dishes for a blind tasting for 20 eager guests in the People’s Choice Award. These guests then select the most popular dish based on presentation, texture and most importantly, taste. Chefs entries close on 6 August – so get in quick to get an entry on the plate!

The following night Serge Dansereau of Bathers Pavilion will be creating a stunning four course dinner in the waterfront function rooms at Rydges.

Serge will be flying in some of his team to work alongside Michael Schubert from Rydges to create the four courses from hand picked regional produce. Serge will personally design and prepare the meal for the lucky guests.

Tickets will be seriously limited and a must for all foodies. The winner of the Mid North Coast Signature Dish will also be announced and their dish presented on the night.

Lovely local Jodie White married Andre Buekers at St Agnes Church on Saturday 10 July followed by a reception at Rydges for over 100 family and friends.

Guests enjoyed a premium buffet followed by a Croquenbush made by Lance at Bittersweet, with beachside photography done by Hydro Photographics. The pair honeymooned in Fiji and will make their home in Port. Congratulations Andre and Jodie!

Quick mentions must go to Nicole Stuert and Marijke Walker, who put on a cabaret night at Cassegrain recently for Bastille Day. Almost 100 guests, including our rowdy table of eight, enjoyed the French inspired event with Can Can dancers and some really delicious French cuisine and, of course, the wine! Bravo and bien cuit to you both!

All that Glitters was, in fact, gold for a select group of party people enjoying some fabulous tunes by DJs from Port and Sydney at the hotel recently. The night started with a whisper but ended with a bang, with Chloe West literally lifting the roof with her awesome vocal performance. Thanks to Ollie Brooke, Frankie Romano, Adrian Benedeck for the tunes!

Another great night out with visiting colleagues from Melbourne at our fave Mexican hideaway Poco Loco – damn those fajitas are good! Such a great atmosphere and truly the best place for a relaxed night out and a chilly Corona.

Party time again in August, with Masquerade balls, Shakespeare and celebrity chefs on the menu – and I suspect a healthy lashing of surprises on their way!

Until next month! Kate.

If you have an event or social news email details and a photo to:

kate_woodfoye@rydges.com

Allegedly we are supposed to be on the party wind down for the year – someone has obviously forgotten to give Port Macquarie this memo! Celeb spottings, race days, birthdays and weddings literally saturated this hectic month, with more of the same expected for March! Clearly I am going to need a bumper pack of party feet and serious dose of Vitamin B to get me through!

We recently had a delicious breakfast at new café ‘The Milkbar’ under the Observatory. It was standing space only for the wet and woolly Sunday when we celebrated good friend Jamie ‘Sparkles’ Styles’s birthday. Thankfully our booking ensured us a very comfy table! Eight of us tucked into a fabulous brekky and some seriously yummy coffees. Steve clearly enjoyed himself, tucking in to no less than 3 luscious lattes! In typical form, the ladies in the party were left wondering how breakfast turned into beers, with the party going through three venue changes and finishing at four in the afternoon! Happy birthday Jamie – looking forward to trying the new release ‘sparkles’ from Cassegrain soon!

We did a spot of power shopping a couple of weekends ago and we bumped (literally bumped – poor thing!) into Toni Collette. The gorgeous Aussie actress must have been home on some well deserved R&R with hubby Dave Galafassi and his family in Wauchope. Fresh from her recent Golden Globe win in the US for her starring role in The United States of Tara, Toni topped off her trip with dinner at the Boardwalk for an evening of vino and tapas. She was even so gracious as to sign a plate for the Boardwalk boys to hang on their wall of fame. It’s good to see that even Hollywood hasn’t diminished her love for the coast or a bit of retail therapy at Just Jeans! A girl needs a decent pair of jeans, after all!

Best hat contestants at the Queen of the North Race Day.

Exciting times for ex local and beautiful entrepreneur Samantha Wills, whose success in Tinseltown continues to sky rocket. This lovely and hardworking lass, now based in New York City, recently showed her wares to LA style guru Rachel Zoe from the Rachel Zoe Project. Rachel styles for all the huge names in Hollywood, including the leggy and lovely Cameron Diaz. Rachel most notably styled Anne Hathaway for her Oscar red carpet/Hugh Jackman moment – it’s a tough job, but somebody’s gotta do it! There is no doubt local girl Sam will continue her ascent to fame and fortune. Sam may be planning a little visit home later in the year for a special local event – fingers crossed she can fit us into her very busy and fabulous schedule!

If rain on your wedding day is a sign of good luck, then Joel Wehlow and his lovely new wife Jenny Mezzina are going to be the luckiest people on earth! The two had planned to be married on sunny Oxley Beach; however, due to the torrential downpour, a quick ‘Plan B’ venue change was put in place as the happy couple said “I do” at Flynn’s Beach Surf Club. Guests were bussed back to Pam and Arthur Wehlow’s stunning Fernbank Creek Rd property, where they were greeted by a magical marquee filled with stunning flowers from Touchwood and twinkling tealights. Over 160 guests greeted the gorgeous couple, who quite literally radiated love and fun throughout the night. Jenny looked absolutely stunning in her off the shoulder gown, with her gorgeous bridesmaids in a striking blue. Joel and the boys wore camel suits and looked handsome and happy as they partied throughout the night. The whole wedding was a family affair, with both sides assisting with preparations on and before the night. Parents of the bride, Jane and Gerry Mezzina, along with sister Louise and hubby Demitri put the final touches on the marquee. MC Josh did a fabulous job of keeping the night on track. We had lots of fun with the guests, including Jenny’s cheeky and charming Italian uncle, who insisted we keep a solid stream of red vino coming his way! The guests enjoyed Silverspoon canapés followed by a sumptuous buffet main course. Rain certainly didn’t dampen the crowd’s mood, with every Mezzina and Wehlow up on the dance floor! Congratulations to Jenny and Joel – wishing you lots of fun, love and happiness!

Alicia Steinhardt and Shaun Weelands were married in mid February in a ceremony at historic St Thomas’ Church. Seventy guests enjoyed a waterfront reception at Rydges with a wedding feast created by Executive Chef Michael Schubert. Guests enjoyed champagne and canapés, with band ‘Well Swung’ entertaining the guests throughout the evening. The main course was followed by a chocolate mud wedding cake from Penelope K for dessert. The couple honeymooned with a cruise on the South Pacific. Congrats to you both.

Jenny & Joel Wehlow on their wedding day. Photo credit: PortPix Photography

We had a lovely if somewhat windy day at the Port Macquarie races in February. Rydges & Travelworld supported the Focus Fashions on The Field for the annual ladies’ day, Queen of the North race meet. Thankfully it was a sunny day and we enjoyed an afternoon of bubbles and nibbles on the Chairman’s Lounge Deck overlooking the track. It was good to see some fashionable and familiar faces, including Dianne Richmond, Toni Cooper, Annabel Warren and Varan Freestone, all frocking up and looking fabulous on the day. Official judges Ria Smith from Funk’d and I had our work cut out for us, with so many elegant ladies and gents to choose form. Congrats to all winners who went home with a swag of prizes to the tune of $5,000, including goodies from Travelworld Port Macquarie, Novotel Coffs Harbour, Rydges, Tommy’s By The Beach, Touchwood Flowers, East Coast Laser and Ella Baché. The guys in Port really should wise up to this whole ‘ladies’ day’ concept – where else are you going to get a chance to rub shoulders with so many fine fillies all frocked up and ready to party? Note to self, fellas – Queen of the North – worth a diary entry for next year!

I made a rather rash comment in an online public forum last month that I would be hanging up my party shoes for the season … It seems that this statement was quite hasty and is considerably harder to adhere to than initially anticipated! Statement officially retracted!

Until next month, Kate.

September marks the true beginning of the social season with some key events on the Port Macquarie schedule, bringing even more reasons to frock up and get out there. The Business Awards on Sept 4 always seem to draw a sell-out crowd – corporate schmoozing and of course the underlying, yet undeniable competitive streak will be at the fore, with local businesses vying for the top gong in their industry.

K-Rudd must have heard the social scene was heating up and has decided to join in the fun, with a special visit to our little city. I am hoping he will receive my subliminal messages and continue his dubious yet fabulous stimulus packages. Just a small donation of say … $2K would get me that Thai shopping expedition I’ve been needing!

I had a long awaited vehicular epiphany on Sunday when my 11 year old car decided to conk out in a rather embarrassing refuelling/dead battery incident. I had to finally admit to myself that one day I might actually have to say goodbye to my little silver rice bubble.

To add to the humiliation of not being able to start my little tin can – the ageing sticky tape holding in my right front indicator was hanging dangerously low. I have to say it really is hard to feel glamorous while driving around with your indicator flapping in the wind!

Much higher up on the glam stakes was the recent Masquerade Charity Ball at Rydges, raising $5,000 for local charity Mid Coast Care. Guests arrived on the red carpet to enjoy canapés and paparazzi shots followed by a live performance from Nathan Brown and his gorgeous girls from Dynasty Dance Studio.

The gals at the masquerade ball

Guests dined on an elegant banquet table adorned with tea lights and golden candelabra. Two delicious courses and lots of lovely Cassegrain wine later, guests including David and Trish Relf, Mark Wilson and the team from Holden, Jane Howland, Lisa and Drew Briscoe, were all up on the dance floor getting down to duo the Jesters.

Items including the Heath Ledger Archibald Prize winning print drew some fabulous bids, with a private dance performance reaching a staggering bid of $3,000!

The night also served as a farewell for the lovely Jo Love who has left the position of manager of Mid Coast Care to return to boutique recruitment agency Men At Work with long time friend Chandra Armstrong. I am sure the girls will continue the fabulous work they do. A welcome must also go to John Parer, the new Manager of Mid Coast Care, who is already doing a stellar job!

The circus came to town with a FABULOUS performance at the Glasshouse in late August. The crowd, including myself, literally sat in awe and hysterics as the dynamic troupe wove a wonderful web of illusion, comedy and acrobatics. The night sponsored by Focus was a huge success, with the Glasshouse team receiving rave reviews for nabbing such a fantastic show.

The cast seemed to enjoy themselves as much as we did, kicking on with a few local vinos at the after party with sponsors and guests. To pick a favourite from the cast would almost be impossible – the strong woman and her hideously harsh bed of nails, the cheeky little ballerina or the batty bride/event coordinator ‘Tiffany’. Overall, the entire cast were an absolute hoot – a show not to miss!

Red carpet seems to be the accessory de jour, with the recent Tourism Awards adding another jewel to the social crown. The theme was ‘A Night at the Oscars’, with guests arriving to a swarm of paparazzi on the red carpet and Focus TV presenters quizzing guests with fashion and award nomination titbits. Canapés and bubbles did follow, with awards being presented in the main Glasshouse Theatre.

Port Macquarie again came away with a swag of awards to include: The Observatory – Hall of Fame in Deluxe Accommodation, Macquarie Waters – Winner Deluxe Accommodation, The Corner – Winner Restaurant and Catering, Telegraph Retreat – Winner Hosted Accommodation and a Distinction to Rydges Port Macquarie for Meetings and Business Tourism.

Mark Ennor from Bellrowan, Mark & Annabel Warren at the Tourism Awards

The night was an excellent excuse to frock up, with Nicole Marzan and Belinda Novicky putting on a fabulous show for tourism operators in the North Coast Region. Congratulations to all involved!

The Journey of Flavour is on the rise, with the second successful networking trade night being held in the CWA waterfront function rooms at the end of August. Over 90 guests were in attendance, including restaurateurs, waiters, chefs, brewers, wine makers, producers and farmers of fine local produce.

This eclectic group of foodies got together to celebrate all that is delicious and local. This movement promotes the concept of eat, support and shop locally, endorsing business who grow, create or serve fabulous local produce. Guests dined on canapés developed by SilverSpoon Catering utilising a selection of local yummies, including cheese from Comboyne Culture, preserves and jams from The Other Chef and Company Farm, fresh local oysters, Yarras Olives, Hastings cheeses and Lorne Valley Macadamias. Guests also enjoyed a selection of local wines, including Cassegrain and Douglas Vale with, of course, a little help from the Wicked Elf!

As I sign off this month, I am gearing up for a long awaited gals’ weekend in Sydney town. A well trained team of dedicated retail and party enthusiasts are booked in for PINK’s Funhouse concert, followed by a serious session of retail therapy (with a precision focus on footwear and accessories!)

I can see that this week will drag hideously, as I dream of one of the largest Westfield Shopping Centres in existence! Ruddles, any update on that stimulus payment? Happy to accept cash, credit or direct deposit!

Cheers, Kate

Honestly, there is nothing less attractive than nearly coughing up a lung!

Well, what a lively little month it has been. Jetsetting up and down the coast, welcoming theatrical performers to our city, attending awards ceremonies and happy snapping at food and wine events. Life is cold but truly good … and extremely busy! The Glasshouse, of course has been the headlining act in recent months with the first show ‘Taming the Shrew’ drawing out local theatre buffs. The all girl cast certainly turned the traditional Shakespearean performance on its head, with a humorous and provocative depiction of the taming of the head strong Kate, AKA, the Shrew! Congrats to the hard working team behind the scenes who pulled the night off without a hitch.

Sandy Gore, Helen Ross and Robyn Birrell at Taming the Shrew

The crowds continue to flow to this cultural hub, with a 300 strong crowd of expectant art lovers enjoying the official opening of the gallery in mid July. Lots of bubbles and delicious cheeses kicked off this long awaited evening. An indigenous dance troupe gave the guests a private performance, filling the gallery with the haunting sounds of the didgeridoo. This fabulous space was literally bursting at the seams, with hundreds of people there to celebrate and enjoy the eclectic mix of local artworks. The lead exhibition curated by Liz Gilroy included striking black and white photographs taken by the late Thomas Dick of the indigenous people in the greater Port Macquarie region from the early 1900s. Congrats to all involved – certainly a future hotspot for all culture vultures!

Central West Community College (CWCC) recently celebrated the opening of their new premises in Short St. Port Macquarie. Seventy guests were on hand to celebrate, with Senior Business Development Manager Graham Draffin and their new team. Kathy Pearce & Rob Moorehead gathered a stellar corporate crowd, including Rob Oakeshott and Peter Besseling for a great night of SilverSpoon Canapés and Cassegrain Wines. Manager Kathy, Rob and the team will be offering training, apprenticeship and recruitment services to businesses in the Hastings. Congratulations and good luck!

Paul Eammes recently threw a surprise birthday bash for his beautiful wife Leanne, with a party at the Observatory Apartments. Guests including Suzie Bell, Kristen Crossingham, Georgina Bowland, Jackie Faddy, Kylie Cross and Nola Woodall were all on hand with their men to party on with the birthday girl. Drinks and nibbles at the Observatory were followed by many more drinks and dancing at Finnians Irish Tavern. The slightly wacky but very funky band got everyone in the party mood, with the birthday girl being stolen for a few dubious and wine infused tangos with my hubby! Thankfully Leanne survived to dance another day! Happy Birthday Ms Eammes – a super fit, glam mum of three who probably wasn’t up to her marathon-running self the following day! Cheers!

Jade and Russell Cooper, David Capper.

Westpac recently held an exclusive client event at their branch, celebrating the return of their Bank Manager role at a local level. Bank Manager Kelly Lamb hosted a ninety guest event to celebrate this renewed local focus for valued clients of both the branch and the business sector. Bronwyn Smart, the State Risk Manager and Steve Hannan, the General Manager for Commercial and Agri-business were also on hand to celebrate enjoying SilverSpoon Canapés and Cassegrain wines. Congratulations to Kelly and the Westpac team for a wonderful evening.

Marijke Walker of J&H Tours recently celebrated a very special birthday at Rydges Port Macquarie, with a Spanish twist. Guests enjoyed traditional Sangria and tapas followed by a Spanish buffet designed by Head Chef Mick Schubert. Marijke’s friends and family travelled from interstate and the UK to be a part of the festivities. Marijke opened the night with a Flamenco performance, setting the scene for the spicy Spanish celebration! Happy birthday Marijke!

The opening of the Ross Family Studio was another exciting event for the Glasshouse, with family and friends of the Ross Family enjoying a sneak preview and private performance in this wonderful space. Helen prepared a fabulous display of local dance and musical talent for her guests to enjoy including an ensemble piece from daughter Katherine, hot off the plane from Bollywood.

Guests then joined the family for a private dinner at Rydges in the waterfront function rooms. Guests, including Candice Rose, Bronwyn Jameson, Gordon McKirdy, Elizabeth Polson-Galloway, Mandy Miller, and Robyn and Mike Birrell enjoyed fabulous food, lots of the local vino and a rather delicious birthday cake in honour of John Ross’ birthday.

Guests really got into this dual celebration and the Scottish family heritage, with a surprise performance from Andrew Roach on the bagpipes! Yes folks – the stories are true – this man really can play! I was convinced his lively rendition was going to inspire John to break into a highland fling! Happy birthday, John! Congratulations to the entire Ross family for their generosity and support of the cultural community. A fabulous night full of fun and friends!

Life is full of crazy little surprises – some naughty and some nice, or a lovely combination of the two! August is set to bring more of the same, with tourism awards, charity balls, farewells and birthdays in the mix! In between all the hype you really can’t beat a glass of bubbles with the gals, a boogie, and catch up.

‘Til next month!

Kate.

I had planned to coincide the connection of the ‘Big A’ with the purchase of a fab new treadmill  … but somehow I find myself glued to the screen, watching copious amounts of Oprah and Law & Order! Seriously, how many Law & Order episodes can they stuff into one day… very disturbing and frighteningly addictive stuff. I have enlisted myself into an Austar early intervention rehab program … so early, and yet so hooked!

Stunning local girl Kylie Anderson recently married her long time love Joel Groth at a beautiful beachside ceremony at Town Beach in front of 70 family and friends. The bride wore a beautiful strapless dress, with her bridesmaids in an array of purple individually designed dresses.

The reception was held at Kylie’s parents’ home in Port Macquarie, with a two course meal by Luxe, followed by a wedding cake of individual white chocolate cupcakes. Guests, including Joel’s gorgeous mum Wendy Groth & Cheryl Jutasi celebrated with Kylie’s siblings Kate, Kirsty & Simon Anderson, who travelled back from Canada for their sister’s wedding celebration. Live entertainment was provided by the bride’s good friend Cassie Bennet and partner Alex, with photography by Joel’s good mate Matt Jorgensen. Congratulations to Mr and Mrs Groth – these two are so good looking it will be impossible not to create lots of gorgeous little babies!

It appears that this month will actually be baby month in my life, with friends and family having babies, throwing baby showers and celebrating christenings. Bring on the christenings I say – always a fabulous excuse for bubbles on a Sunday!

Paid parental leave will certainly be on the menu for discussion at these events, with even more reason for further population of the nation! Kev it appears, is on a handout roll – will he be offering paid parental puppy leave I wonder? Here’s hoping – pigs might fly – will the swine flu count?

Natalie Grzybowicz & Glen Cavaco, both from Sydney, chose Port Macquarie as the place to say “I do”, with a ceremony at Windmill Hill followed by a reception for 80 family friends and at Rydges Port Macquarie. Guests enjoyed canapés on the waterfront terrace followed by a two course celebration.

This was followed by a delicious chocolate mud cake designed by Isabel Gurreiro, served with vanilla bean ice-cream. The bride was radiant in an off the shoulder gown, with gorgeous bridesmaid Amanda in soft pink. Natalie’s proud parents are now Port Macquarie locals, relocating here almost 12 years ago. Congratulations to Natalie and Glen, who honeymooned in the delightfully relaxing Fiji.

I recently had the pleasure of meeting Thredbo Survivor Stuart Diver and Salvo mentor Major Don Woodland at a private cocktail party in the Rydges Executive Suite. The bond between these two men was immediate and heartfelt – a pleasure to witness.

Thirty guests, including Majors Gary and Sharon Cooper, Janine and Craig Buesnel, Jenny Edmunds, John Millard, Christie Lee Jackson and David Capper, enjoyed canapés and drinks while savouring the beautiful Port Macquarie sunset over the Hastings River. This relaxed affair was an opportunity for Stuart and Don to meet with the Red Shield Appeal Committee prior to the fundraising breakfast the next morning. Congrats to the Salvos and to the Port Macquarie business community, who raised a tremendous $12,500 all before 9am! A fabulous start to a Friday morning and to this year’s fundraising initiative.

Thanks to all those home owners who dug deep for the recent Salvos door knock. A personal thanks must go to those who opened their door and their wallets and kept their ‘friendly’ dogs on a leash – much appreciated!

One would think that mooching around at the recent Miss Universe fashion show was enough to keep Steve going for the rest of his natural life! Clearly he now has a taste for the ‘it’ scene and is now hard at work gearing up for Cassegrain’s major sponsorship of the Victoria’s Secret Lingerie launch in Sydney. I am quite sure this strenuous activity will keep him on his toes, with drop dead Russian models named Nadja wearing not much more than a frilly G String and well placed pair of angel wings to keep him occupied!

The final insult could actually be that I have to forfeit my lovely ticket – to attend a local business event that is on the same night. Goodbye champagne & hob knobbing with the rich and famous! Hello divorce lawyer!

Rightfully assuming that I was a little peeved that I wasn’t able to attend this black tie extravaganza (at the Hilton!) – said husband thought that a goody bag filled with lots of lovely girly things, make up samples, posh bottled water, fashion mags etc. would alleviate any potential tantrums or periods of depression.

The goody bags did go a small way to avoid a potentially larger issue, but did nothing to counter the fact that he happened to have a beer with Mark Spano of Idol or had a nice chat with Guyton Grantley, the infamous Carl of Underbelly notoriety. It was then mentioned that the night prior to Miss Universe was actually the launch of Cooee Swimwear – another parade of bikini clad lovelies of which front row was gladly taken! Keep those goody bags coming, baby!

Speaking of Underbelly, it seems to have taken Australia by storm and certainly caused a bit of stir for our staff. Both Rydges Port Macquarie and Rydges Parramatta have had their brush with fame with the final episode of the current series being filmed on one our exec floors in Parramatta. Staff were swooning for Matt Newton, AKA seedy Terry Clarke, and it was hugs all round for the villain everyone just hates to love – Bob Trimboli.

New recruit Dana, from Vue Café nearly fainted when serving Frankie J. Holden, the former police inspector of the Melbourne series and was quite excited to discover her Underbelly fave is a regular in the café and to Port Macquarie, where his parents are based. It seems to have been the month for star gazing, with Nacho Pop – the hip hop choreographer from ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ bringing his girl and film crew to the hotel for a little R and R. Bridie Kelly of McLeod’s Daughters is also a hotel regular, holidaying with hubby and little one in tow on her way to and from Byron.

Another high profile figure who is putting his weight into a worthwhile cause is Stuart Diver, who will be visiting Port Macquarie in mid May to launch the annual Red Shield Appeal. He will be guest speaker at a business breakfast on Friday 15 May at the Westport Club. Stuart will relay his experience with the Salvos and of course his personal story of the Thredbo disaster. This will be a hot breakfast ticket, so get in quick! Seats are strictly limited; $50 per person will secure you a place for a truly inspiring morning.

Mothers are a hot topic this month, with plenty going on in town to keep the little ladies happy and those delicious roast dinners coming! Kate Byrne from Settlement City Shopping Centre has a fabulous promotion this month, with entrants to the comp getting the opportunity to win a luxurious trip to Rydges Hideaway Fiji. I have to say it has been all I can do not to get on the net and book myself a trip to the beautiful little island. One small issue is currently stopping me – a terminal lack of that essential ingredient – annual leave!

The lovely Lauren Carroll has had a big month. Not only did she turn 25, she bade farewell to the sunny shores of Port Macquarie and made her way to London town! In typical Ella Baché style, Lauren held a fabulous fancy dress party at Blue Water Bar and Grill with 50 friends and family. Dressed as a very sexy French showgirl, she kicked her heels up all over town with ex colleagues and her lovely mum Bette. Lauren is a beautiful girl who will be sadly missed at the salon (particularly by moi!) and by her large band of buddies. Good luck Lauren!

I was recently on the judging panel for Search for A Supermodel run by Cuneo productions. A bevy of local beauties paraded through Settlement City Shopping Centre for all to see, with proud mums, dads and friends watching on. Three things struck immediately from this parade. 1. There are a huge amount of gorgeous and talented young guys and girls in the Hastings. 2. Making a decision with so many beautiful entrants is extremely difficult and 3. That I am super, super old! These guys were ranging in age from 11 – 19 and really knew how to strut their stuff. Congratulations to the stunning Brooke Durrant, who was voted as the winner on the night, with Aliesha Malio receiving the encouragement award. Brooke will now be zooming down to Sydney for photo shoots for her portfolio and will be gracing the pages of magazines and TV very soon. Watch out Elle and Jenn – Brooke is on her way! Congratulations to all involved!

Love is in the air again, with Wauchope couple Ben Conway recently popping the question to long time love Kylie Morgan of Coast 2 Coast Sports. Top this off with a brand new house, and these two are on cloud nine. Congratulations guys!

Michelle Ketteringham and Matthew Saad recently tied the knot in Port Macquarie, with a ceremony at the beautiful Old School House, followed by a reception at Rydges. Fifty family and friends from Port Macquarie and the Gold Coast enjoyed canapés, followed by a main course and chocolate mud wedding cake. The couple have made their home on the coast.

The lovely Leanne Corken and Andrew Oates of Port Macquarie recently said “I do” at picturesque Douglas Vale Vineyard in front of 100 family and friends. The weather threatened, but held off for the gorgeous outdoor ceremony in front of the historic house and leafy grape vines. Guests then relaxed to duo The Jesters, and dined on Silverspoon Canapés and premium wines. The extended Bennett family are particularly close to our hearts, with a special mention to Gayle Corkin – stunning Mother of the Bride, Kate Bennett – aunty of the Bride, and her beautiful daughter Amanda and husband Stephen. Last but not least, George and Mary Bennet, the elders of the clan – the funkiest grandparents I know! Congratulations to Leanne and Andrew, who now make their home in Port Macquarie.

Sunday, happy Sunday! A friend of mine wished me this recently as I was chowing down on some fab Eggs Benny and a freshly squeezed juice on the best day of the week. Sunday really is the most wonderful day – even more so when you are sharing it with friends at a cruisy little café. Congrats to Georgia, Lance and their team at Bitter Sweet Café for serving up friendly service and fab food every Sunday – it really makes my weekend complete. Sunshine, smoked salmon, hollandaise sauce and a newspaper – literally heaven. I wonder if K Rudd will consider handing out extra Sundays as well as our stimulus package? Thanks Kevie … that would be ruddy wonderful!

Sue Faulkner, Christie Battishall, Kate Byrne & Allison Massey at the Rydges Poolside Party

What an extraordinary couple of weeks we have had – extraordinarily sad with bushfires in rural Victoria and the unexpected torrential downpour of rain in Port Macquarie for us. Life would seem a little more fair if the rains had transported themselves further south, rather than drenching us all in the north. 

I have recently returned from a trip to Melbourne and do declare that Melbournites are highly resilient, delightful people who have an absolutely stunning city. It’s got a little more soul than its edgier sister Sydney, and the people seem to be just more down to earth and a little more genuine. Melbourne is also home to my favourite DFO shopping spots, and despite earlier vows to stay away from them, their allure was just too strong! I soon found myself hightailing it up the street in seriously unsuitable stilettos, dodging trams and passersby – my natural homing device zooming in on DFO heaven. Despite a busy schedule, I managed to squeeze in the essential hour of power post conference retail session!

Geoff Whitecross, Jacqui Eller, Kate Hutten & Jo Love at the Rydges Pool party

While I was away I was lucky enough to enjoy a fabulous meal at Jamie Oliver’s restaurant Fifteen in Melbourne – despite obvious plusses on arrival (a rather gorgeous waiter, reminiscent of Prince Will prior to premature balding, with a very alluring foreign accent!) the atmosphere and food were just divine. Rather than an overspiced, overdressed meal, the food was simple, elegant and the flavour combinations just delicious. The service was not only pleasing on the eye, but on the spirit. The waitstaff took genuine interest in us as guests but weren’t so intrusive with pompous descriptions and flourishes that you couldn’t enjoy your meal. Sadly, the lovable Londoner Jamie was not in sight, but his kitchen brigade certainly did him proud.

Leo Hawker, Stuart Bates & Grant Frecklington get Back to Business

Rydges Port Macquarie held its annual Back to Business Event poolside in mid Feb, with corporate guests enjoying a welcome back to the New Year in relaxed style. Hosted by the executive team, guests enjoyed canapés, drinks and the launch of the new conference season. Duo Matt & Elizabeth entertained the relaxed guests as they enjoyed the waterfront venue. Thanks to the ever generous Ashleigh Trouncer of Qantas for her sponsorship of two return flights from Sydney – Marc Stortenbeker was certainly chuffed with the prize, being the lucky winner of the much sought after flights. Marc Minor of Sovereign Hills also stepped away with a dinner for two in Rydges waterfront restaurant. 

Vue Cafe’s Malinda Sherrard & Meg Mitchell with Scott Blanch, winner of the Dig for a Diamond

Congrats to Scott Blanch, winner of the Dig for a Diamond promotion outside Vue Café & Bar. Over 100 guests braved strong winds and torrential rain to dive for the sparkly trinket. Well done to Claire, Hugh, Steve and the rest of the Star FM team for putting up with such wild and woolly conditions. Hot chocolate and a raincoat anyone!

Good friends Mr Tracy Goss and beautiful fiancée Ellen Howell celebrated their Australian wedding party on Saturday 14 February at their new home on the canals. Tracy, a native of New Zealand and Ellen from Arizona chose a wild, wild west theme for their pre wedding celebration. Guests donned Stetsons, corsets, leather and plenty of gingham to congratulate the happy couple on their impending wedding. 

Tracy Goss & Ellen Howell at their Pre wedding celebration

“Howdy partner” seemed to be the flavour of the night, with plenty of guests chowing down on south of the border cuisine and Budweiser beer. Guests, including Gemma & Jason Clifton, Louise & Jay Beaumont, Chris Kelly and gorgeous gal Fiona Dodd all got into the western theme, with some guys taking their cowboy roles a little more seriously than others! The happy couple cut their ‘pre’ wedding cake and did a very sexy salsa number for their bridal dance, leaving us all feeling slightly uncoordinated and inadequate, wishing we could book in fairly swiftly for salsa lessons! Tracy and Ellen head over to the US to celebrate their real wedding in early March with family and friends from abroad. I am super excited that we will be there to join in with all the fun! 

As a new home owner, I am seriously concerned at the amount of time I am spending at Bunnings. Previously an uneventful once a month trip to get essential items, I am now finding myself there every weekend scouring the shelves for handy home items and garden paraphernalia. Who knew that I needed a reverse cycle dishwasher double hose fixture or a pitch fork with extra grip and slow release organic fertiliser? 

This sad but enjoyable shopping practice keeps me strangely happy in gumboots and scruffies all weekend. I understand the true depth of our issue when Steve goes into serious withdrawals if he hasn’t had his weekly fix of Bunnings fundraising sausage sandwich! Scary!

Next time I write to you all I will be in sunny Mexico lapping up the sunshine on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship on the Mexican Riviera. Bring on the Mohitos and the nachos, baby! I am ready for a wind down! I am sure a little bit of R & R will be in order after the wedding celebrations in Arizona and our little stop over in Vegas. Having never been on a cruise before, I am a little concerned about the vomitus el seasickness issue! I will be loading us all up with a good dose of travel calm prior to embarking! One small hindrance to a successful OS trip is a current passport – I am currently waiting with bated breath to see if my last minute order arrives! I will not be a happy camper if I am the only amigo left behind! Adios!

Cheers, Kate.

Jay Pringle, Monikar Hanimar & Elisa Fuduric at the Casino Royale

Sunshine we love you!

The endless summer is rolling on into the month of love, with February’s little love boat dropping anchor in our pretty city. No doubt ‘popping the question’ will be the order of the day, with lovelorn lads laying it on the line for their lucky ladies on Valentine’s Day. Dinner, roses, sign writing in the sky – what lengths will gents go to, to get the ‘yes’ that they so desperately request?

Diamonds are indeed a girl’s best friend – one carat or two, white gold or yellow, princess cut or baguette? Yes boys, there is a fine art in choosing the perfect diamond ring. In the wise words of a bejewelled Beyoncé Knowles: “If you like it you should-a put a ring on it! And it might as well be big and bling-a-licious!”

There was plenty of bling at the recent Casino Royale event on December 31. One hundred and forty guests welcomed in the New Year, Las Vegas style, with plenty of glamour and fun at Rydges Port Macquarie. Limos, lights and red carpets, as lots of lovely ladies and lads geared up for Casino night! 

Las Vegas Ladies - Sarah Ward, Megan-Dekker and Kirby Holdsworth

Guests were treated to a ritzy Vegas show complete with stunning dancing show girls, professional black jack & poker croupiers, live six piece Vegas show band and, of course, plenty of bubbly! GM David Capper and myself got into the fun hosting a full house for the event. Special thanks must go to talented Nathan Brown & Francessca O’Donnell for the fabulous Vegas routines. Guests included Jason Sharp, Nicole & Wayne Prince, Liz & Mark Fuller, Beck Steele, Hawley & Ross Dwyer, Nicole Small, Leaha Stevenson, Sarah & Lucas Ward, Jay & Louise Beaumont, Dylan Gaul & Jenna Burton, who all partied on into 2009. 

Patrick Wood & Melissa Stennet - 80s birthday flashback

Patrick Wood celebrated his 21st birthday in a blur of hairspray, glow coloured bike pants and scary shoulder pads with his retro 80s birthday bash in late January. Guests channelled Cyndi Lauper, Madonna, Billy Idol, Miami Vice and just pure bad taste to invoke the freakish fashions of the 80s. Guests, including Talia Moy, Brooke Gardner, Amanda Pass and Jye Engel enjoyed an impromptu performance by Patrick’s dad Eddie & brother in law dressed in Tina Turner drag to turn the night into a full-on 80s flashback. 

DJ Brendan Crocker kept the tunes pumping until Sunday, with plenty of sore heads the next day. Many guests including myself are still suffering from a serious case of Bananarama overload and crimped hair cringe! Congratulations to Trish and the team for pulling off a fab night. 

Grant Woods, Jon Pitkin & Kylie Malligan at the NBN Launch

NBN Television launched their 2009 season in late January, with an exclusive party on the penthouse roof deck at the Luxor Apartments on town beach. Fran Murphy, Bernard Corbett & Grant Woods treated guests to a private screening of the year to come, complemented by SilverSpoon canapés and premium wines. The stunning venue overlooking both Town & Oxley Beach was the perfect setting for the 60 guests to enjoy a sneak peak of the year to come. Attendees included Mark Lyon of BBQs Galore, Kylie Malligan of Let’s Go Travel, Jon Pitkin of Jons Family Jewellers, and Marilyn & Ian Joyce from P’chi Swimwear. Congratulations to Fran and the NBN crew for a wonderful evening.

We recently attended a fabulous do on the Gold Coast hosted by Gerry Harvey & John Singleton. The boys & wife Katie Page-Harvey hosted a dinner extravaganza in honour of the famous Magic Millions. 

One hundred and forty guests were invited to the private marquee set upon the lawns of the Gold Coast Turf Club, including Luke Ricketson former NRL footballer, Sunday Telegraph Fashion Editor Melissa Hoyer, Melissa Downs from Channel Nine, Anthea Loucas, Editor of Gourmet Traveller, the CEO of BMW and a series of seriously leggy models direct from New York City. 

Event designers David Grant and the girls from Map & Page created a decadent spread utilising vintage silverware and summer blooms accompanied by a fabulous menu from ‘John & Peter’ out of Sydney. Cassegrain Wines was selected as one of the table pours, rubbing shoulders with the prestigious Lanson champagne. The table settings were literally to die for, as was the delicious cuisine. 

The face of the Magic Millions

A fabulous night was topped of by Michael Wright, our dinner guest winning the Best Dressed Male at the Magic Millions Race the next day – lucky sod winning $35K worth of cash & prizes! Good looks and panache – damn his good dress sense!

Oysters in the Vines made a huge splash on Sunday of the Australia Day Weekend, with fans of the slippery little suckers heading out in their droves to shuck & tuck into some rather tasty little oysters! Despite some early drizzle in the day, the weather was just the right temperature to get stuck into some serious tasting and relaxing. Guest chefs were on hand to create a series of oyster delicacies, with Cassegrain wine to match. Another great day put on by John and his hardworking team.

Valentine’s Day will no doubt put a significant dent in the pockets of those in love. One option for those looking for a bit of fun this Valentine’s day is the ‘Dig for a Diamond’ competition outside Vue Café & Bar next to Rydges. 

On the day of love itself – Matt Howarth and his team from Star FM will be on hand to assist those lads & ladies wishing to get their hands on a big diamond ring for their Valentine. 

All you have to do is dig through a tonne of sand to find it. Now where did I put my little bucket & spade … yep that’s right, there is no such thing as too much bling!

Till next month!

Kate

Anika & Simon Martin & Ebony Reynaud

If last month felt like a feral festive ferris wheel that you just wanted to get off – then here is your chance! January is officially the month of relaxation and recuperation. If festive fatigue is your holiday diagnosis, then the only reliable cure is a beach towel, trashy fashion mags, a good massage, and a serious dose of sleep ins and breakfasts in bed!

December was a ridiculously busy month, with so many Christmas drinks and birthday bashes to attend I was starting to feel permanently tiddly! Saturday 6 December was just one of those crazy Saturdays, with three consecutive birthday celebrations for three very special ladies. The first was a Mexican Fiesta party for Mrs Louise Beaumont – this fab pool party was just what the doctor ordered on a stinking hot summer’s day. Guests were welcomed with plenty of yummy Mexican punch (the ingredients – certainly a mystery!) and a delicious Mexican feast prepared by hubby Jay. Not bad Mr Beaumont – will definitely have to steal your recipe for that salsa and slow roasted pork! Guests including Kate & Wayne Byrne, Melinda Dalton & Candice Rose enjoyed the hot weather and the gorgeous pool. Happy Birthday Lou!

Dr Jose Fernandez, Dr Lindsay Bryant & Dr Mark Baker

After a dip, drink and a nibble, it was time to head off to beautiful Telegraph Point for Brigid Loane’s 40th birthday celebrations. Brigid from Silverspoon Catering & Events celebrated with 50 of her family and friends at her beautiful property in Red Hill. The highlight was a fabulous slide show put together by one of Brigid’s nephew’s celebrating all things Brigid – including some retro (and slightly hilarious) 80s moments. Lots of lovely canapés and drinkies on offer there. Thank God I wasn’t driving! 

Last but not least for this birthday marathon, was Miss Christie Battishall of Rydges Port Macquarie. She celebrated her 21st birthday with a Hawaiian twist with 100 friends at her parents’ property at Hannam Vale, south of Port Macquarie. Guests arrived to a driveway lit with candles, a beach ( shipped in by her dad the night before! Good on you Dad!) and coloured lanterns strung through their award winning garden. Christie and her family created a little piece of Hawaii right there between the sheep and the cows! Guests were decked out in grass skirts and floral leis and proceeded to consume copious amounts of totally lethal cocktails. Christie’s best birthday present would have to be jet setting overseas for a four week tour across Europe! Lucky little thing. Here’s hoping she packed her winter woollies – no bikinis or beaches for her on Christmas Day!

right Linda Scocca, Bride Suzy Upcroft, Paula Nolan & Kylie Monaghan.

Saturday 13 December had a wet and wild beginning. Thankfully for the 165 staff at the Port Macquarie Private hospital it cleared for a beautiful afternoon in the sun at the Old School House Rawdon Island. Greg Jenke and his team converged upon the School House in typical festive spirit, with some guests in glam and others dressed up as Christmas elves! The gorgeous Mrs Shayne McGuire coordinated the event in style, with guests dining on a series of delicious Silverspoon canapés followed by some seriously naughty miniature desserts. Guests (including the boogie king Grant!) partied on to Ken MacArthur and his band until late, with guests being bussed back to Port Macquarie all the more jolly for their Christmas celebration! A farewell must go to CEO Greg Jenke, who has been snavelled up by John Flynn Private Hospital on the Gold Coast. All the best Greg – you will be missed!

Mark & Shayne McGuire, Greg & Leanne Jenke & Brenda Fernandez

Margret Meagher, Sharni Lloyd, and Niomi Sands presented an exclusive evening at the Regional Gallery for Friends of the Gallery & Glasshouse, on Thursday 18 December. The select group of guests enjoyed a private viewing of the Archibald Prize finalists. Portraits of famous faces included that of Tim Ferris of INXS, Neil Finn of Crowded House, and musician Sarah Blasko, to name just a few. The artworks themselves were mesmerising, each capturing the essence and mood of their subjects. Guests mingled through the striking pieces enjoying Cassegrain wines and Wicked Elf beers, sampling some scrummy canapés to complete the evening. 

Happy birthday must also go this month to one of my favourite girls, Christie Lee Jackson of Settlement City – Miss Jackson has now officially turned the big ‘3 – 0’ and is planning a big birthday bash for mid January after the festive rush. Christie and hubby Jamie celebrated on the day with a relaxed lunch with friends, chowing down on some seriously yummy champagne and lobster! Happy Birthday Christie!

Angela Plaistowe, O’Dell Clark & Juliana Geddes

Brad Purdy & Suzy Upcroft of Sydney celebrated their wedding day on Saturday 20 December – the last wedding for 2009! The gorgeous pair selected Rawdon Island for their riverfront ceremony and reception in front of 125 family and friends. The bride’s parents, Dianna & Ken Upcroft of the North Shore put hours of planning into the event, with all guests enjoying a fabulous venue, cuisine and surrounds. The bride looked stunning with her three bridesmaids, all in different coloured satin dresses, with brother Robbie doing a fabulous job as MC. The evening was filled with lots of laughs, including some wonderful speeches and finishing with plenty of dancing under the vines in the moonlight. Congratulations Brad & Suzy! Happy honeymooning!

Now where was I … ? Yes, back to the beach towel and the book! Bring on some much required R&R! Sunshine, sleep, and perhaps just a little more socialising – what are holidays for! Happy New Year!

Cheers, Kate!